8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

MCDONALDS CORP 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Dec 23, 2009)

Filed December 23, 2009For Securities:MCD

Summary

This 8-K filing from McDonald's Corporation announces the details of the retirement agreement with Ralph Alvarez, the company's former President and Chief Operating Officer, effective December 31, 2009. The agreement outlines the terms related to Mr. Alvarez's departure, including non-compete clauses, the handling of his stock options, and restricted stock unit (RSU) awards. Key provisions include a two-year non-compete agreement and customary restrictive covenants in exchange for continued vesting of certain equity awards on a pro-rata basis. The exercisability of some stock options will be delayed as originally scheduled, rather than becoming immediately exercisable upon retirement. This agreement aims to protect the company's interests while providing Mr. Alvarez with agreed-upon compensation and benefits in accordance with existing plans. Investors should note the specific terms regarding equity awards and potential forfeiture in case of breach of covenants.

Key Highlights

  • 1Ralph Alvarez, President and COO, will retire effective December 31, 2009.
  • 2An agreement has been reached regarding Mr. Alvarez's retirement terms.
  • 3Mr. Alvarez agrees to a two-year non-compete clause and other restrictive covenants.
  • 4Certain stock options will have their exercisability delayed, continuing on the original vesting schedule.
  • 5Restricted Stock Unit (RSU) awards will be settled on their original dates on a pro-rata basis.
  • 6Breach of restrictive covenants will result in forfeiture of outstanding stock options and RSUs.
  • 7Mr. Alvarez will receive his annual and long-term bonuses as per applicable plan terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

This filing details the retirement agreement between McDonald's Corporation and its President and Chief Operating Officer, Ralph Alvarez. It outlines the terms and conditions related to his departure, focusing on non-compete clauses and compensation, particularly equity awards.

The agreement stipulates that certain stock options will continue to vest according to their original schedule, rather than becoming immediately exercisable. His restricted stock unit (RSU) awards will be settled on their original settlement dates, but on a pro-rata basis reflecting the time served. Specific treatment may vary based on the terms of individual grants and plans.

If Mr. Alvarez breaches any of the restrictive covenants outlined in the agreement, he will forfeit all outstanding stock options and RSUs and will not receive any further payments beyond what is already contractually owed and earned.

Yes, Mr. Alvarez is entitled to receive his annual bonus under the 2009 Target Incentive Plan and his long-term cash bonus under the 2007-2009 Cash Performance Unit Plan, provided these are in accordance with the terms and performance criteria of those respective plans.